Wards act like magic shields. They provide some defense against magic damage, while also boosting armor by 40-80 points, depending on the type of ward. The cast button needs to be held for this spell to function, meaning it functions like a traditional shield.

For players interested in being pure mage characters, defense and armor are indeed serious concerns.

Enemy mages frequently use Ward spells. If possible, attempt to break through the ward with large amounts of burst damage. Otherwise, switch to using physical attacks, or defend until they run out of magicka.

Powers and Shouts are types of magic. Wards can even handle Fire Breath, to a certain degree.

Players should consider the benefits and drawbacks of using a Ward versus a Shield for a given situation. The general rule is that shields are better against physical attacks, while Wards are better against magic. Of course, one could simply use the Spellbreaker shield to get the best of both worlds.

Wards override a soul trap enchantment on a weapon, meaning killing someone with a ward still active nets no soul.

If a Ward is used while an actual shield is also equipped, the player will block with both at the same time, even if only the ward button is pressed.